CR2 to JPG Converter
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What is a CR2 file?
CR2 stands for Canon Raw version 2. It’s a raw image format used by Canon digital cameras to store unprocessed photo data directly from the camera's sensor. Unlike JPG, CR2 files retain all the detail and allow for extensive editing without quality loss.
This format is based on the TIFF standard and is widely used by professional photographers who need full control over exposure, color correction, and post-processing.
How to open CR2 files
CR2 files can be opened using Canon’s Digital Photo Professional (DPP), Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, and many other photo editing tools. Free alternatives include RawTherapee and darktable.
If you just need to convert a CR2 file to a more accessible format like JPG or PNG, AnyConv makes the process fast and easy - directly in your browser, with no software required.
Key facts about CR2
- Full name: Canon Raw version 2
- Extension: .cr2
- MIME type: image/x-canon-cr2
- Developed by: Canon
- Initial release: 2004
Useful links and resources
What is a JPG file?
JPG (or JPEG) stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group, the team that created the standard back in the early 1990s. It’s one of the most common image formats in the world, known for compressing digital photos while retaining acceptable quality.
JPG uses lossy compression, which means some image data is discarded during saving. This makes JPG files smaller, ideal for web use, email, and social sharing - but less ideal for images that require fine detail or multiple edits.
How to open JPG files
JPG files can be opened on virtually any device - Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux - using default apps like Photos, Preview, or third-party software such as Photoshop and GIMP. Even web browsers can display JPGs natively.
This universal support makes JPG the go-to format for photography, online graphics, and digital documents.
Key facts about JPG
- Full name: Joint Photographic Experts Group
- Extension: .jpg, .jpeg
- MIME type: image/jpeg
- Developed by: JPEG Group
- Initial release: 1992
Useful links and resources
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a CR2 file and why can't I open it?CR2 stands for Canon Raw Version 2, a format used by many Canon digital cameras. It's designed to store unprocessed image data straight from the camera sensor, giving photographers more flexibility in editing. However, most standard photo viewers (especially on Windows or mobile) don’t support CR2 files natively - that’s why converting to JPG is often necessary.
- Will I lose image quality when converting CR2 to JPG?Yes - but only slightly. JPG is a compressed, lossy format, which means some image data is discarded to reduce file size. For most users, the difference is barely noticeable, especially if you use high-quality settings during conversion. If you need to preserve full quality, consider converting to TIFF instead.
- Can I batch convert multiple CR2 files at once?Absolutely. Our converter lets you upload and convert multiple CR2 files at once, saving time for photographers working with entire shoots. You’ll get a separate JPG for each CR2 image in return.
- How big are CR2 files compared to JPGs?CR2 files are typically 10–30 MB each, depending on your camera and settings. After conversion, the resulting JPGs are usually 3–10 times smaller, making them easier to store, share, and upload to websites or social media.
- Why does my CR2 file look better in camera than the JPG I get?Your camera shows a processed preview with boosted colors and contrast. But a CR2 file is raw and unedited, so the converted JPG may look flatter or darker. This is normal - it just reflects the difference between a camera's preview and the raw sensor data.
- Is it better to convert CR2 to JPG or edit the CR2 file directly?If you're a photographer planning detailed editing (e.g., exposure, color correction), editing CR2 in Lightroom or Photoshop first is better. But if you just need a viewable or shareable version, CR2 to JPG conversion is the fastest and most compatible option.
- Are CR2 files obsolete? Should I convert my old collection?Canon has moved on to newer formats like CR3, but CR2 files are still widely used and supported. If you have a large archive of CR2 photos, it’s a good idea to convert selected images to JPG for easy viewing or sharing, while keeping the originals for editing or archiving.
- Is this converter safe for private or professional photos?Yes - we never store your files permanently. Uploaded CR2 files are deleted shortly after conversion, and output JPGs are kept for a limited time. You don’t need to register or install anything. It’s secure, fast, and 100% online.